The Growler: Issue 78 – April 2020 – The Old Country

Cover art by Sam Soulek

Dear Readers,

On Monday, March 16, our publisher Matt Kenevan informed staff that The Growler Magazine needs to temporarily suspend operations in the face of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Bars, restaurants, taprooms, and event organizers—the very advertisers and partners that make up the core of our magazine’s financial support—have been closed down, and small businesses like ours are being caught in the widening gyre of economic hardship.

To be clear, this is not goodbye. While this suspension of operations means that you will not find a May print issue on stands, our full intention is to return as soon as we can with a new issue for your reading pleasure.

This was the hardest decision Matt has ever had to make as a small business owner. It is a painful time for our entire staff, who month after month pour their hearts and souls into this magazine. If you have the means and would like to support the magazine, consider making a financial contribution or purchasing a magazine subscription at growlermag.com/donate.

But our company’s story is sadly just one of many. Please consider supporting your favorite craft drinking and dining establishments in any way possible, whether that be purchasing gift cards, ordering growlers to-go, or purchasing a bottle of spirits or wine at your favorite liquor store.

This month’s Old Country theme was originally conceived as an issue to highlight the rich flavors and diverse ideas that have made their way from the other countries to Minnesota. In light of the current pandemic, however, this theme has taken on new meaning. I hope that the stories found in this issue will help expel any suspicions or fear of The Other that may try to creep into our minds as we physically separate ourselves from each other.

If nothing else, our community’s response to protect our elderly and vulnerable populations from this pandemic demonstrates an ineffaceable union that binds us together. It’s our duty to remember not only our interconnectedness but the value and humanity of all individuals.

Sincerely,

Brian KaufenbergEditor-in-Chief

Drink

The Belgian WaffleFrom hallowed import to sidelined style to mega-brewery powerhouse—It’s been a wild ride for Belgian beer in the American 21st century By John Garland